Balance between Tourism and Tradition
By: Peer Mohammad Amir Qureshi
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Kashmir has long been hailed as “Paradise on Earth.” Its snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and serene lakes have lured travelers, poets, and dreamers for centuries.
The legendary Sufi poet Amir Khusro once beautifully encapsulated its essence in his words: ”Gar firdous baraye zameen ast, hami astov hami ast”—“If there is a paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here.” But beneath its breathtaking beauty lies a land at a crossroads—where the allure of tourism clashes with the sanctity of tradition. This is the story of Kashmir, a land of contrasts, where the promise of progress meets the weight of preservation.
The Enchantment of Eden: A Land That Steals Hearts
Kashmir is more than just a destination; it’s an emotion. It’s cool, crisp air offers respite from the scorching heat of the plains, while its landscapes—ranging from lush meadows to rugged mountains—paint a picture so perfect it feels surreal. From the gondola rides in Gulmarg to the tranquil waters of Dal Lake, every corner of Kashmir whispers tales of wonder.
Adventurers flock to its trails, like the challenging trek to the Seven Great Lakes, while spiritual seekers embark on sacred pilgrimages to Amarnath and Vaishno Devi. The region’s archaeological gems, such as the ancient springs of Kokernag and Verinag, add layers of history to its natural charm. And let’s not forget the Mughal Gardens of Nishat and Shalimar, where terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and vibrant flowerbeds create a symphony of beauty. Nishat Bagh, the “Garden of Joy,” offers panoramic views of Dal Lake, while Shalimar Bagh, the “Abode of Love,” whispers tales of Mughal emperors and their romantic escapades.
But Kashmir isn’t just a playground for tourists—it’s a living, breathing culture. Its soul is woven with the threads of Sufi mysticism, ancient traditions, and a deep reverence for nature.
The Warmth of Kashmiri Hospitality: Hearts as Big as the Valleys
One of Kashmir’s most enduring treasures is its people. Known for their warm hearts and boundless hospitality, Kashmiris welcome visitors with open arms and a steaming cup of kahwa—a traditional saffron-infused tea served in a samovar, a beautifully crafted brass kettle that symbolizes the region’s rich cultural heritage. The samovar, with its intricate engravings, is not just a vessel for tea but a centerpiece of Kashmiri gatherings, where stories are shared, and bonds are strengthened.
Speaking of saffron, the purple blooms of Pampore’s saffron fields are a sight to behold. Known as “red gold,” Kashmiri saffron is among the finest in the world, adding a touch of luxury to every dish it graces. The delicate process of harvesting saffron, done by hand at dawn, is a testament to the dedication of the local farmers who have preserved this tradition for centuries.
The Shawls of Kashmir: Woven with Love and Legacy
No mention of Kashmir is complete without its world-renowned shawls. These exquisite pieces of art, crafted from the finest Pashmina wool, are a symbol of luxury and tradition.
The intricate embroidery, known as Kashida, tells stories of the valley’s rich heritage, with motifs inspired by nature—chinar leaves, flowers, and vines. Whether it’s the soft warmth of a Pashmina shawl or the intricate beauty of a Sozni-embroidered piece, each shawl is a labor of love, often taking months to complete. For centuries, Kashmiri shawls have adorned royalty and inspired all, making them not just a garment but a piece of history.
The Shikara Ride: Gliding Through Dal Lake’s Dreams
No visit to Kashmir is complete without a Shikara ride on Dal Lake. These elegant wooden boats, adorned with colorful canopies and plush cushions, glide effortlessly across the mirror-like waters. As you float past floating gardens, vibrant markets, and quaint houseboats, the world seems to slow down. The gentle splash of the oar, the distant call of a vendor selling flowers or snacks, and the reflection of the surrounding mountains create a symphony of serenity. It’s not just a ride; it’s a journey into the soul of Kashmir.
The Tulip Garden: A Blooming Spectacle under strain
During the very spring, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar transforms into a riot of colors, with over a million tulips imported from Amsterdam painting the landscape in hues of red, yellow, pink, and purple. The Department of Floriculture introduces new varieties and innovative flower bed designs each year, making it a visual feast for visitors.
However, the garden’s popularity has become its Achilles’ heel. Overcrowding during the blooming season has turned this serene escape into a chaotic maze of selfie sticks and jostling crowds. The narrow pathways are jam-packed, leaving little room to sit and soak in the beauty. While the tulips continue to bloom, the experience of witnessing them is often marred by the sheer volume of tourists.
The Freshwater Jewels: Manasbal and Wular Lake
Beyond Dal Lake, Kashmir is home to other freshwater gems like Manasbal Lake in Ganderbal and Wular Lake, one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes. Manasbal, often called the “Supreme Gem of All Lakes,” is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Its tranquil waters, surrounded by lush greenery, offer a peaceful retreat away from the tourist hustle.
Wular Lake, on the other hand, is a sprawling expanse of water that changes hues with the shifting sunlight. It’s not just a scenic spot but also a vital ecosystem supporting local livelihoods. Both lakes are reminders of Kashmir’s pristine natural beauty, but they too face the threat of pollution and over-tourism.
The Giants of Kashmir: The Majestic Chinar Trees
No mention of Kashmir is complete without its iconic Chinar trees. These towering giants, with their broad leaves and gnarled trunks, are a hallmark of the valley. Planted centuries ago by Mughal emperors, Chinars are more than just trees—they are living monuments to Kashmir’s history. Their golden autumn foliage creates a magical canopy, making them a favorite spot for poets, painters, and photographers.
Archaeological Marvels: Echoes of a Glorious Past
Kashmir is a treasure trove for history buffs and archaeologists. Sites like Martand Sun Temple, an 8th-century marvel dedicated to the Sun God, and Parihaspora, the ancient capital of the Kashmir Valley, offer glimpses into the region’s rich past. The Avantipur ruins, with their intricate carvings and grand architecture, are another testament to Kashmir’s glorious heritage. These sites are not just relics of stone but stories etched in time, waiting to be explored.
The Rise of Tourism: A Double-Edged Sword
As Kashmir’s beauty gained global recognition, the wheels of tourism began to turn. The government, eager to tap into this potential, launched ambitious projects to make the valley more accessible. The recent inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was a game-changer, ensuring year-round connectivity and opening doors to winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
But the engineering marvels don’t stop there. The Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, stands as a testament to human ingenuity. Towering over the Chenab River at a height of 359 meters, this architectural wonder connects Jammu to Kashmir, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. The zojila Tunnel, once completed, will be India’s longest road tunnel, providing all-weather access to Ladakh and further integrating the region with the rest of the country.
The government’s investment in infrastructure—amounting to crores of rupees—has transformed the journey from Jammu to Kashmir into a seamless experience. The winding roads, cutting through mountains and valleys, are a testament to the relentless efforts of engineers and workers who braved harsh terrains to connect this paradise to the world.
For a while, it seemed like Kashmir was on the brink of an economic renaissance. Hotels sprung up, jobs were created, and the promise of prosperity glittered on the horizon. But with progress came problems—problems that threatened the very essence of what made Kashmir special.
The Dark Side of Development: Paradise under Pressure
The surge in tourism brought with it a wave of challenges that Kashmir was ill-prepared to handle:
Overcrowding and Environmental Degradation:
Once-pristine destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam are now teeming with tourists, leaving behind trails of litter and stress on local ecosystems. The Tulip Garden, once a serene escape, is now a chaotic sea of selfie sticks during its blooming season.
Cultural Erosion:
Kashmir’s rich heritage, shaped by Sufi saints and ancient rishis, is under threat. The influx of tourists has introduced practices that clash with local values—like public drinking near mosques and shrines, sparking outrage among the deeply religious population.
The Gulmarg Controversy:
The breaking point came during Ramadan, when an obscene fashion show was held in Gulmarg. Models from around the world walked the snow-covered ramp in revealing attire, igniting a firestorm of criticism.
As images and videos of the event cascaded across social media, the outcry grew deafening. Kashmiris, already grappling with the delicate dance between preserving their heritage and embracing economic progress, found themselves united in fury. “Is this the price of tourism?” they ask, their voices trembling with indignation. “Are we to trade our identity for fleeting moments of entertainment?”
The event, seen as a blatant disrespect to local traditions, forced the government to take notice and re-evaluate the direction of tourism.
A Plea to Visitors: Respect the Soul of Kashmir
To those who visit this paradise, a humble request: tread lightly. Respect the religious values and sentiments of the Kashmiri people. Remember that the mosques, shrines, and sacred spaces you encounter are not just tourist attractions—they are the heartbeats of a community. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of behavior that may offend, and take a moment to understand the culture you are stepping into.
Lessons from the World: Balancing Growth and Heritage:
Kashmir doesn’t have to look far for inspiration. Countries like Bhutan and Oman have shown that tourism and tradition can coexist. Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” policy ensures that tourism benefits the economy without overwhelming the culture. Oman, with its pristine deserts and historic forts, has struck a similar balance, preserving its heritage while welcoming visitors.
Even closer to home, Aceh in Indonesia has implemented strict measures to align tourism with Islamic values, proving that development doesn’t have to come at the cost of identity.
A Vision for Kashmir: Quality Over Quantity
The path forward for Kashmir is clear: it must prioritize quality over quantity. Instead of chasing mass tourism, the focus should be on sustainable practices that protect the environment and respect local traditions. Policies that limit visitor numbers, promote eco-friendly tourism, and celebrate Kashmiri culture can ensure that the region remains a paradise for generations to come.
Kashmir’s future lies in striking a delicate balance—where modern infrastructure supports economic growth without overshadowing the spiritual and cultural heartbeat of the valley.
Conclusion: A Paradise worth preserving
Kashmir is more than just a destination; it’s a legacy. Its beauty has the power to heal, inspire, and transform. But as the world flocks to its valleys, it’s crucial to remember that this paradise is fragile. The choices we make today will determine whether Kashmir remains a sanctuary of peace or becomes a casualty of unchecked development.
Let’s not just visit Kashmir—let’s protect it. For in its snow-clad peaks and shimmering lakes lies not just the soul of a region, but the heartbeat of humanity. And as Amir Khusro so eloquently said, if there is a paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here. Let’s ensure it stays that way.
(The author is a columnist and feature writer)
